Decision Maker: Scrutiny Committee - Children and Families

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: February 12, 2026

Purpose:

Content: The Scrutiny Children and Families Committee RESOLVED to convey to the Executive that:   The Committee has noted and approved, in principle, the DMP Governance Model for a member-led Standing Panel, but has requested that it be renamed to better emphasise member-led oversight. The Panel should review and finalise its own Terms of Reference. The Panel should report back to Scrutiny every six months. The Panel should enhance clarity on the role of partners in SEND. Health and other partners must be clearly visible within SEND improvement governance. Clarity is required on where and how partners contribute to reducing demand and cost pressures. The DMP work remains critical and unchanged, and the Government’s “90% write-off” announcement does not reduce the urgency. Democratic Services should issue a call for volunteers to all Members and co-opted Scrutiny Members.